Hundreds rally against hikes at Minn. Capitol rally
Republican politicians railed against tax increases Saturday in front of an enthusiastic group of a few hundred people gathered on the State Capitol lawn in St. Paul.
Children held signs that read "don't spend my future," while adults carried messages like "think before you tax."
Speakers included GOP state Senate Majority Leader Amy Koch, and the Republicans from Minnesota's congressional delegation.
Rep. Michele Bachmann advocated abolishing the tax code and instituting what she called a flat or fair tax.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.
She also said the government should take steps to slow the rise in food prices.
"We can have the Federal Reserve stop printing money and financing the debt. We can have them stop having them buying our t-bills from the United States Treasury. We can have them stop spending money that we don't have," Bachmann said.
Bachmann also proposed eliminating the Departments of Education and Energy.
Freshman Rep. Chip Cravaack warned the crowd against growing complacent.
"A lot of folks in Washington need to hear your voices loud and clear," Cravaack said. "They want to know if you're still paying attention. They want to know if you're still motivated.
"Are you still motivated?" Cravaack asked the crowd, which cheered in reply. "I thought so."
Cravaack told the audience to remind lawmakers in Washington D.C. that they derive their power from the people.